Syracuse Basketball vs. Clemson: 5 Keys to the Game

Shut Down Jaron Blossomgame

Blossomgame leads Clemson in points and rebounds. He’s also second on the team in blocks, doesn’t turn the ball over, and hits 39% of his 3-pointers. He’s the catalyst behind almost everything that Clemson does.

He’s struggled a bit lately, averaging just 10 points on just 37% shooting over his last six games, but make no mistake, he is the leader of Clemson. They go as he goes.

Blossomgame is a 6’7 junior who has vastly improved in each of his three seasons. He’s a versatile forward who can shoot from the outside, score from inside, rebound, and get to the free throw line.

If left unchecked, he will absolutely feast on the offensive glass against the porous 2-3 zone. SU needs to get a body on him every time someone else shoots the ball, and they need to keep him out of the paint when he’s got it in his hands.

He’s a good outside shooter as well, but doesn’t take a large volume of shots from there so hopefully we can keep him contained. If Syracuse wants to win, it all starts with limiting what Blossomgame gets.

Next: SU Basketball: What Happened to Michael Gbinije?

So there you have it. If Syracuse can manage these five aspects of the game, they will win. If not… well, let’s not think about that. SU has to win this game. They can’t afford another loss and neither can Hopkins at this point.

I’ve given him the benefit of the doubt since he’s basically just doing exactly what Boeheim would, but if he finishes 4-5 with lossses to both St. John’s and Clemson, the warning bells will start to fly. I don’t expect that to happen though, as I think we will just outplay Clemson for this one.

Check back tomorrow for a look at the rest of Clemson and what they have to offer. Also stop in after the game to get a full review of all the action.